Joe Downs talks to storage facility owners about three things that keep boat and RV tenants from leaving: lighting in the aisles, proper drainage so vehicles don't get damaged, and security tight enough to stop theft. Tenants bail when these fail.
Chapters
Boat and RV tenants access their vehicles early in the morning before a weekend trip and late at night after returning. A facility that's difficult to navigate after dark generates consistent low-star reviews and anxiety on the first visits that contributes to early tenure turn. Adequate coverage of aisles and access points is non-negotiable. Surface condition is important. A rutted, flooded gravel lot damages the tow vehicles and trailers of your highest value tenants. It's a liability exposure and a visible signal that the facility is not well managed. Basic grading, drainage, surface maintenance keeps the facility passable and protect— it protects tenant relationships. Really good security coverage can help prevent a theft. At an inadequately secured facility, it is a retention event For the entire tenant base, not just the victim. Sorry, a theft at an inadequately secured facility is a retention event for the entire tenant base, not just the victim. Tenants who hear about a theft ask themselves whether their vehicle is protected.